John Amos, Legendary Star of ‘Coming to America, ‘Roots’, Dies at 84

LOS ANGELES, USA – John Amos, the Emmy-nominated actor best known for his roles in Good Times, Roots, and Coming to America, has passed away at the age of 84.

His son, Kelly Christopher “K.C.” Amos announced the news stating that his father died of natural causes in Los Angeles on August 21.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” K.C. wrote.

“He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… and he was loved the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”

K.C. Amos added that his father remained passionate about his craft until the end.

“My father loved working as an actor throughout his entire life,” he said, referencing his most recent role in Suits LA and their joint documentary about his life journey, America’s Dad.

“He was my dad, my best friend, and my hero.”

A Legacy in Film and Television

Amos’s career spanned more than five decades, leaving an indelible mark on American television and film.

He first gained widespread recognition as Gordy Howard on The Mary Tyler Moore Show in 1970, but his portrayal of James Evans Sr. on Good Times made him a household name.

Good Times, which was the first television series to focus on a Black family, showcased Amos’s dedication to portraying authentic and real Black lives on screen, which led to creative differences with the show’s producers and his eventual departure in 1976.

“I had a way of voicing my differences against the script that weren’t acceptable to the creative staff,” Amos later recalled.

His strong beliefs about the portrayal of Black families led to him being labelled a “disruptive element,” but his departure did little to slow his career.

Amos earned an Emmy nomination for his role in the groundbreaking 1977 miniseries Roots, in which he played Kunta Kinte’s descendant, Toby.

“You don’t anticipate that kind of success because that’s dreaming and that’s one thing actors can’t afford to do,” he reflected in an interview with The Wrap in 2022. “We’ve got to deal in reality.”

His work continued throughout the ’80s and ’90s with notable roles on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Hunter, and 704 Hauser. In 1988, he starred in Coming to America as Cleo McDowell, a role he reprised in the 2021 sequel.

Personal Challenges and Family Disputes

Amos’s later years were marred by personal challenges. In June 2023, he was hospitalized for heart issues caused by fluid buildup in his body.

His daughter, Shannon Amos, made allegations of elder abuse, which John Amos denied.

The Los Angeles Police Department launched an investigation into her claims but ultimately closed the case due to lack of evidence in April 2024.

Throughout the ordeal, Amos stood by his son, K.C., and expressed his gratitude for the authorities’ handling of the situation.

Amos also faced health concerns leading up to his death, but continued to work in the entertainment industry.

His final film appearances included Block Party and Me Time in 2022, and an episode of The Righteous Gemstones.

Tributes and Remembrances

Julia Buchwald, president of talent agency Buchwald, which represented Amos, expressed her condolences: “We were so proud to represent John. He was not only a remarkable talent but also a deeply kind and generous soul. His impact on the industry and those who knew him will never be forgotten.”

Reflecting on his legacy in a 2022 interview with TVLine, Amos said, “The truth of it is, when I started acting, I never thought I would live this long, much less be an actor. I’ve had a blessed career, and I attribute that to my faith in God and the fact that I was raised right.”

Amos’s impact on television and film, particularly his portrayal of strong Black fathers, remains his lasting legacy.

His work on Good Times and Roots inspired generations and ensured his place in television history.